Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário believes that advancing age has made it difficult for Cristiano Ronaldo to keep up with the high physical intensity of the World Cup, stressing that the body has the final say in any player's continued presence on the pitch.

Nazário explained, in statements reported by French site Foot Mercato, that Cristiano, as well as Brazilian Neymar, have reached a stage where they must balance their ambitions with their physical capabilities, noting that competition in the World Cup is completely different from other tournaments.

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The World Cup winner with Brazil added that playing in the Saudi league may be less demanding physically, but he emphasized that the World Cup imposes a much higher level, making it more difficult to continue as players age. Ronaldo affirmed that football fans may wish for players to continue forever, but reality is different, because ultimately the body determines when to stop, citing his personal experience, explaining that his desire to play was there, but his physical condition could no longer keep up with what his mind demanded. Nazário's comments came after Portugal's elimination from the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup following a 1-0 loss to Spain, while Lionel Messi continued to lead Argentina to the final for the second consecutive time.

Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious career with the Portuguese national team, which saw him win the European Championship and the UEFA Nations League, the World Cup remains the major title missing from his trophy cabinet.